Jharsuguda is a mineral-rich industrial district in Odisha, India. It is known for its coal, quartzite, and fire clay deposits, as well as its limestone, granite, white sandstone, and laterite stone. The district is also home to a number of major industrial units, such as Vendanta Alumina, Bhusan Steel and Power, and TATA Refractories.
In addition to its industrial importance, Jharsuguda is also a popular tourist destination. The district is home to a number of scenic waterfalls, including the Koilighughar waterfall in Lakhanpur. Jharsuguda is also home to a number of historical sites, such as the ruins of the Hill Forts of Ulapgarh and the rock paintings and lithographs of Bikramkhol.
Jharsuguda is also known for its rich cultural heritage. The district is home to a number of temples, including the Padmasini Temple of Padampur, the Ancient Shiva Shrine of Jhadeswar Temple, and the Ramchandi, an ancient Shaktipitha. Jharsuguda is also home to a number of fairs and festivals that are celebrated throughout the year.
Things to do in Jharsuguda:
- Visit the Koilighughar waterfall in Lakhanpur.
- Explore the ruins of the Hill Forts of Ulapgarh.
- See the rock paintings and lithographs of Bikramkhol.
- Visit the Padmasini Temple of Padampur.
- Pay your respects at the Ancient Shiva Shrine of Jhadeswar Temple.
- Attend one of the many fairs and festivals that are celebrated throughout the year.
Jharsuguda District is a beautiful district in Odisha, India, with a rich cultural heritage and a variety of tourist places. Here are some of the most popular tourist places in Jharsuguda District:
Koilighughar Waterfall:
Located about 57 kilometers from Jharsuguda town, the Koilighughar Waterfall is a picturesque spot renowned for its serene beauty. It is a popular destination for picnics and offers a refreshing escape into nature. The waterfall cascades down a rocky cliff into a pool below, surrounded by lush greenery. Visitors can enjoy a swim in the pool, relax on the rocks, or simply soak in the stunning views.
Jhadeswar Temple:
A short distance of about 1 kilometer from Jharsuguda Railway Station, this ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed to have been built in the 11th century and is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Jharsuguda District. The temple is known for its unique self-appearing Shivlingam, which is said to change color depending on the time of day.
Pahadi Mandir:
Perched on a hilltop, about 3 kilometers from Jharsuguda town, the Pahadi Mandir is another Shiva temple. It is known for its stunning views of the surrounding area and its peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can climb the steps to the temple or take a cable car ride. The temple complex also includes a park and a children’s play area.
Bikramkhol:
An archaeological gem, this ancient cave, situated around 25 kilometers from Jharsuguda town, is known for its rock paintings and inscriptions that date back to approximately 1500 BC. The paintings depict a variety of scenes, including hunting, dancing, and religious rituals. The inscriptions are written in a script that is still being deciphered by archaeologists.
Ramchandi:
About 30 kilometers from Jharsuguda town, Ramchandi is a religious site known for its Chandipitha, nestled inside a natural rock cave on the banks of the river Ib. It is believed to be a place where the Hindu goddess Chandi is worshipped. The cave is also known for its natural formations, including stalactites and stalagmites.
Pikalghugar:
This picturesque picnic spot is located roughly 45 kilometers from Jharsuguda town. Surrounded by dense forests and hilltops, it provides a tranquil environment for relaxation and communion with nature. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities at Pikalghugar, including boating, fishing, and trekking. There are also several waterfalls in the area, which are a popular attraction during the monsoon season.
Gujapahar:
For those who seek the cool climes of a hill station, Gujapahar, located about 60 kilometers from Jharsuguda town, offers a serene getaway with its pristine natural surroundings. The hill station is known for its dense forests, waterfalls, and panoramic views. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities at Gujapahar, including trekking, camping, and boating.
Ulapgarh:
Situated approximately 25 kilometers from Jharsuguda town, Ulapgarh is an ancient site known for its historical paintings and inscriptions. It is believed to have been a stronghold of the Chauhan kings in the 12th century. The paintings depict a variety of scenes, including hunting, warfare, and religious rituals. The inscriptions are written in a script that is still being deciphered by archaeologists.
These are just a few of the many tourist places in Jharsuguda District. With its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, Jharsuguda District has something to offer everyone.
Jharsuguda District Culture and Heritage
Jharsuguda District in Odisha, India, has a rich and developed cultural heritage. Various fairs and festivals are observed throughout the year, indicating its cultural and religious richness. Though many of the fairs and festivals are common to other parts of Odisha, there are a few which are distinct and special to Jharsuguda District.
Some of the indigenous festivals of Jharsuguda District are:
- Ranjita Festival
- Ratha Yatra of Kukurjunga
- Gokulastami Jatra of Rajpur
- Makar Ratha Jatra of Belpahar
Important Fairs and Festivals of Jharsuguda District:
Ranjita Festival: This festival is celebrated every year on the night of the 10th day of Suklapaksha of the month of Aswin. It is a reminder of the valor of the ancestors and the family deity is worshipped the whole day. The common people also take part in this Ranjta Utsav by demonstrating the martial skills learnt from the erstwhile soldiers of the Jamindars, to the sound of the martial drum-beating.
Ratha Yatra of Kukurjunga: This festival is observed on the 2nd day of the bright lunar fortnight of the month of Ashadha’. The Rath of Kukurjangha is a massive structure with 16 wheels. Thousands of pilgrims from the nearby areas assemble at Kukurjangha to witness the gala Rathajatra Festival every year.
Gokulastami Jatra of Rajpur: This festival is celebrated every year on the 8th day of the bright fortnight in the month of Margasira. The focal point of this festival is the Jagannath Temple, situated in front of the palace of the Jamindar of Rajpur. The villagers serve cooked food in leaves for about a distance of half kilometers on the road and wait for the cattle to return.
Makar Ratha Jatra of Belpahar: This festival is organized on the occasion of Makar Sankranti. On this day, the Sun (Sabita) dwells in Makara Rasi, hence the chariot of Lord Jagannath of Gumadera has been named ‘Sabita Rath’ or the ‘Sun Chariot’. On the day of Makar Sankranti, the 3 deities of Jagannath temple ride on the Sabita Rath and travel to their Mausimaa (Aunt) house. Thousands of pilgrims assemble and take part in this festival, amidst chanting of Bhajan, Kirtan, and Dancing.
These are just a few of the many fairs and festivals that are celebrated in Jharsuguda District. With its rich cultural heritage, Jharsuguda District has something to offer everyone.
How to get to Jharsuguda:
Jharsuguda is well-connected to other parts of India by road, rail, and air.
- By road: Jharsuguda is located on the National Highway 49. There are regular bus services to Jharsuguda from major cities in Odisha and neighboring states.
- By rail: Jharsuguda has a major railway station that is connected to all major cities in India.
- By air: Jharsuguda Airport is located about 10 km from the city center. There are regular flights to Jharsuguda from Kolkata, Bhubaneswar, and Hyderabad.
Where to stay in Jharsuguda:
Here are some highly-rated hotels and guesthouses to consider when staying in Jharsuguda:
- Hotel Orchard is a down-to-earth hotel fronted by gardens offering a restaurant, a bar, and event space. It is located on the Sambalpur-Sundargarh-Rourkela Highway, about 10 km from the city center.
- Hotel Lalit Heritage is a budget hotel located in the heart of Jharsuguda, near the railway station. It offers clean and comfortable rooms, as well as a restaurant and a bar.
- Hotel Meghdoot is another popular budget hotel located in the city center. It offers clean and spacious rooms, as well as a restaurant and a bar.
- Hotel Aryan is a mid-range hotel located in the Bijju Nagar area of Jharsuguda. It offers comfortable rooms, as well as a restaurant and a bar.
- Hotel Micro Continental is also a mid-range hotel located in the Bijju Nagar area of Jharsuguda. It offers comfortable rooms, as well as a restaurant and a bar.
Other popular hotels and guesthouses in Jharsuguda include:
- Hotel Rajdoot
- Natraj Hotel
- Usha Prabhat Homestays
- Hotel Pushpa
- Hotel Konark Regency
- Hotel Vishnu Palace
When choosing a hotel or guesthouse in Jharsuguda, it is important to consider your budget and your needs. If you are looking for a comfortable and affordable hotel in the city center, then Hotel Lalit Heritage or Hotel Meghdoot are good options. If you are looking for a mid-range hotel with a restaurant and a bar, then Hotel Aryan or Hotel Micro Continental are good options. If you are looking for a more budget-friendly option, then there are a number of guesthouses available in Jharsuguda, such as Usha Prabhat Homestays.
No matter what your budget or needs are, you are sure to find a suitable place to stay in Jharsuguda.
